Designed by Dutch architects Mecanoo, the library will be situated on Centenary Square between the Birmingham Repertory Theatre (The REP) and Baskerville House.

The 31,000 sq m building will be joined to The REP at ground and mezzanine levels and will share the foyer, bars, restaurants and a new 300seat theatre.
 
The building, which will be mostly made of glass and wrapped in ornamental metal wires, will include a public balcony and an elevated garden.

Council bosses hope the building will make a huge contribution to the regeneration of the city.

Councillor Mike Whitby, leader of Birmingham City Council said: "Despite the global economic slowdown, demand for and confidence in Birmingham has never been higher.

"The new Library of Birmingham will be an iconic landmark, and a testament to the role Birmingham will play in the 21st century as a truly global city. The new designs are further evidence of our intention to attract world-class architects to work with the City, and these designs support our ambition to create a building which will bring people together, nurture creativity, allow far greater access to our cultural heritage, and act as a focal hub within the city and the region."

Carillion is expected to start on site next year with the facility due to open in 2013.

Public consultation on the design will run from mid-April through to mid-May.